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AP Environmental Science Overview
Aug 9, 2024
AP Environmental Science Lecture Notes
Introduction to AP Environmental Science
Study of interactions between Earth's systems and human systems.
Current global population exceeds 7 billion, creating pressure on Earth.
Course Structure
Focus on:
Earth systems
Living systems
Human populations
Topics covered include:
Land and water use
Energy
Pollution and climate change
Importance of Sustainability
Understanding sustainability is key to living within Earth's boundaries.
Example: Easter Island - deforestation led to dramatic population decline.
Key Figures in Environmental Science
Rachel Carson:
Author of "Silent Spring"
Studied DDT and its negative environmental impacts.
Distinction Between Environmental Science and Environmentalism
Environmental science seeks truth through scientific methods.
Environmentalism is a belief system advocating for environmental protection.
Why This Course Matters
Importance of societal survival rather than just saving the planet.
Planet will survive; human numbers may not if we exceed planetary boundaries.
Planetary boundaries (Johann Rockstrom):
Climate change
Ocean acidification
Ozone depletion
Nitrogen and phosphorus cycles
Freshwater use
Deforestation
Biodiversity loss
Pollution
Economic Drivers of Sustainability
Need for economic incentives to encourage sustainable practices.
The concept of ecological footprint:
Developed countries consume more resources than developing ones.
Interdisciplinary Approach
Course includes natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Discusses ethics, law, and politics alongside scientific content.
Course Practices
Importance of applying scientific principles:
Asking questions
Conducting investigations
Case studies (e.g., Deep Water Horizon oil spill)
AP Exam Overview
Test Structure
Multiple Choice
100 questions, 90 minutes.
Mix of discrete questions and sets (e.g., maps).
Free Response
One question based on a data set.
Document-based question related to a fictional city (Fremont).
Data Analysis Skills
Analyze data for multiple choice and free response.
Emphasis on calculations without calculators.
Must understand dimensional analysis and scientific notation.
Concept Map
Environmental Science: interactions between natural and human systems.
Focus on:
Land and water use
Energy
Pollution and global change
Importance of practices in the course.
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